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The
Exterior Walls of this Fortified Town The fortress of Aigues-Mortes was constructed because France needed a Mediterranean port to embark its armies to sail to the crusades.  . . . In 1248, King Louis IX embarked for the 7th crusade from Aigues-Mortes. The city was almost finished & became an important economic area for trade with the eastern countries.  Small gates are only large enough for foot traffic. . . .  In 1270, King Louis IX embarked from Aigues-Mortes for the 8th crusade that was also to be his last as he died not long after of typhus, off the coast of Tunisia.  Despite the military reason for the walls, they make a fabulous place to visit now.  Tower of Constance pictured here was a very famous prison. Amongst its prisoners, was Saint Louis' nephew, as well as other well-known people : templars, camisards (Huguenots) and bonapartists. The photos on this page were taken by David Callan in June 2006 Italy, France &
England
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